Swinhoe's Lophura (Lophura swinhoii)
Swinhoe's Lophura, or Swinhoe's pheasant, is a rare bird from the pheasant family and an endemic species of Taiwan. Its vibrant plumage reflects the colors of the national flag, making it an unofficial symbol of the country. The species is named after the British naturalist Robert Swinhoe.
Appearance
Males reach a total length of about 79 cm, with 41–50 cm of that being the long tail, and weigh up to 1110 g. Females are significantly smaller, up to 50 cm long, with a tail of 20–22 cm. These birds are distinguished by their bright and striking plumage.
Diet
The diet is varied and includes acorns, berries, flower buds, leaves, and other plant materials. They also feed on small invertebrates such as earthworms, centipedes, and termites.
Distribution and Habitat
This species inhabits the central mountains of Taiwan, primarily in broadleaf forests up to 2000 m above sea level. According to the IUCN, it is classified as Near Threatened (NT). The main threats are deforestation, and historically, hunting also significantly impacted the population.